Just Cruises Plus

The winner of the 8/26/11 photo contest is Sheila Mandl of North Babylon, NY.  Sheila’s name was randomly selected from just 4 who correctly responded to our contest question (what is the name of this grouping of rocks?).

The grouping of rocks in the contest photo (show below) is referred to as “The Indians”, so named for their likeness to an Indian bonnet or headdress when viewed from afar.  This series of rocks or rock pinnacles is located just off of Pelican Island in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).



Photo Contest - August 26, 2011


The Indians are considered to be a “not-to-be missed” dive and snorkeling site.   We have experienced this underwater theater on several sailing adventures.  In the same “neighborhood” (at least from a sailor’s perspective), are The Caves, an amazing formation of shallow caves which you can snorkel into and, in some places, stand.  Although you always have access to outside light when in the caves, the shadows and less-sun-exposed areas make for some interesting sea life that you would not be exposed to in more traditional snorkeling locations  – a waterproof flashlight comes in handy.   The rainbow of colors on the interior walls are fantastic to witness.

The Indians and Pelican Island are part of a larger complex of islands that lay just across the Francis Drake Channel from Roadtown, the capital of Tortola.   Most of the population of the BVIs live on Tortola, a less common but much-appreciated cruise ship port.  It is a haven for sailors and a great jumping off point for dive boats, snorkel trips and for excursions to The Baths (Virgin Gorda) because of it’s central location in the BVI chain and it’s proximity to St. John of the US Virgin Islands.